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I'm trying to avoid the tolls that are all over the i80 and take the i70 west (also I've never taken the 70 so I would love to check out this route. I've already taken the 40 and the 80 and the tolls are way too much for me to pay)

So I was wondering if anybody had any tips for getting out there and getting to that road, I have an atlas so of course I can just look at that and plan a route but I would love to see what other people have to say about this route and see what they have taken. I'm traveling with my two year old so anyways that we can save money are ones that we need to look into!!

I-80 across PA to West I-76 in Ohio to Columbus and West I-270 to the west side of Columbus, OH connecting with I-70 West.
I-70 goes through St. Louis. Take a break and see the Gateway Arch beside the Mississippi River.

You can take 84 west to 81 south to 80 west to 76 west ( past Youngstown, towards Akron) to 71 south (towards Cleveland) to 70 west.

This avoids most of the tolls;

For saving on lodging, pick up one of the RoomSaver type magazines at the first rest stop. They have coupons for discounts at hotels/motels along the way for walk ins. They also have small maps that show where there are lots of lodging choices as well as what they offer for extras, so even if it is a time you can't use the coupon, at least you know where there are places to stay.

have a safe trip!
For the 2 yr old, look for fast food places that have playscapes to burn off energy, even if you don't feed him/her there.

Wow thanks so much everyone! These have been really helpful, I'm looking forward to seeing what other people have to say. I have done this cross country drive so many times but it seems all new again now that I have my little one with me!